USCIS Case Status and Processing Times

1. How do I check my USCIS case status?


You can check the status of your USCIS case by visiting the USCIS website and entering your receipt number. You can also call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for assistance.

2. How can I contact USCIS about my case?


You can contact USCIS by calling the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283, or by using the online contact form available on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov.

3. How can I expedite my USCIS case?


The best way to expedite your USCIS case is to file a request for expedited processing. The request must contain compelling evidence supporting the need for an expedited review and should be accompanied by supporting documentation. USCIS has set certain criteria for expedited processing requests, and if your case meets any of these criteria, then you may be eligible for expedited processing. Additionally, if your case is urgently needed to address a humanitarian or time-sensitive issue, you can call the USCIS National Customer Service Center and request an emergency appointment with your local USCIS office.

4. How long does it take USCIS to process a case?


The time it takes for USCIS to process a case varies depending on the type of case. In general, processing times can range from a few weeks to several months and in some cases, a few years. You can use the USCIS Processing Times tool to approximate the amount of time it will take to process your case.

5. How can I get updates on my USCIS case status?


You can check the status of your USCIS case online at uscis.gov/check-case-status or by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. You may also receive text message or email updates when your case status changes. To sign up for an alert, visit uscis.gov/account and create an account.

6. What documents do I need to submit with my USCIS application?


Depending on the type of USCIS application you are submitting, the documents you need to include may vary. Generally, you should submit a completed USCIS form with supporting documents such as evidence of your identity and any other documentation that supports your eligibility for the particular benefit you are seeking. You should also include all applicable government filing fees. For more information on the specific documents and fees required for your application, refer to the USCIS website.

7. What is the current processing timeline for USCIS cases?


On average, processing times for USCIS cases vary depending on the type of application and the local USCIS office. You can check the processing times online at https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/. The processing time for most USCIS applications is approximately 6 months or longer.

8. What are the steps in the USCIS application process?


The USCIS application process typically includes the following steps:

1. Prepare the application forms and documents: Gather all necessary forms and documents, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, proof of residency, and any other required documents.

2. Submit an online application: Submit the application and the supporting documents electronically with the correct filing fee to the USCIS website.

3. Schedule an interview: If necessary, applicants may be asked to attend an in-person interview with a USCIS officer.

4. Pass a background check: During the process, USCIS will conduct a background check on the applicant to ensure they do not pose a security risk. This may include a criminal background check and a review of any past immigration violations.

5. Receive an answer from USCIS: Depending on the type of application, USCIS will either approve or deny the application. If approved, applicants may be issued a work permit or green card.

9. What kind of information do I need to provide to USCIS to check my case status?


To check the status of your case with USCIS, you will need to provide your receipt number, the name of the petitioner, and your date of birth.

10. What are the reasons why a USCIS case could be delayed?


The reasons why a USCIS case could be delayed include:
1. Incomplete or insufficient documentation;
2. Error or omission by a petitioner;
3. Incorrect or missing information in the application;
4. Your application was selected for further review, including security checks;
5. An application was transferred to a different USCIS office for processing;
6. Your application is pending background checks or additional administrative processing;
7. You are required to appear for an interview;
8. A backlog of applications at the USCIS;
9. There are additional verification requirements for your application; and
10. Your application is pending before an administrative appeals office or federal court.

11. How long does a decision take after a USCIS interview?


The answer to this question depends on the type of USCIS interview. Generally, applicants should receive a decision within 30 days of their interview. However, if the case is complex or more information is needed from the applicant, the decision may take longer.

12. How can I check the status of my biometric appointment for my USCIS application?


You can check the status of your biometric appointment by logging into your USCIS online account and selecting “Check Appointment Status”. You can also contact the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.

13. Can I travel while my USCIS application is being processed?


Yes, you can travel while your USCIS application is being processed. However, it is recommended that you wait for your application to be approved prior to traveling and have your documents ready to present to the immigration and customs officers when requested. Additionally, you may need to apply for a travel document, such as an Advance Parole document, if you plan on traveling outside of the United States while your application is being processed.

14. How can I find out if my I-485 application has been approved or denied?


You can check your USCIS case status online or by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. You can also check your I-485 status by visiting a local USCIS office.

15. How much does it cost to file a USCIS application?


The cost of filing a USCIS application depends on the type of application being filed. Generally, USCIS filing fees range from $0 to $1,225.

16. What is an RFE from USCIS and how do I respond to it?


RFE stands for Request for Evidence. It is a request from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that requests additional information or evidence needed to make a decision on a pending application. The response to an RFE must include all requested documents and a cover letter that explains each document and how it supports the application.

17. What happens if I miss the deadline to respond to an RFE from USCIS?


If you miss the deadline to respond to an RFE from USCIS, your application may be denied. This means that you would have to start the immigration process all over again if you still wanted to pursue it.

18. How long does it take for USCIS to issue an employment authorization document (EAD) card?


USCIS typically issues an employment authorization document (EAD) card within 90 days of submitting the application. However, processing times can vary significantly depending on caseload and other factors.

19. How long does it take for a green card application to be approved or denied by USCIS?


The exact amount of time it takes for a green card application to be approved or denied by USCIS varies depending on the specific case, however, typically it takes anywhere from 6 months to 1 year.

20. Are there any fees for requesting an update on my USCIS case status or processing time?


No, there are no fees associated with requesting an update on your USCIS case status or processing time.